Your friendly guide from the team at Canaan Stone Works - family-owned & operated, Kansas City-proud, and installing countertops in as little as 7 days. Answered by Kansas City’s Favorite Fabricator.
Top Questions People Ask When Buying New Countertops
Canaan Stone Works
If you’re shopping for new kitchen or bathroom countertops, chances are your Google search history looks a little like this:
“Quartz vs granite - which is better?”
“How much do countertops cost?”
“How long does the installation take?”
Don’t worry - you’re not alone. At Canaan Stone Works, we talk with hundreds of Kansas City homeowners, builders, and designers every year, and almost everyone has the same questions. So today, we’re breaking down the top things people ask (and secretly want to ask) when they’re choosing new countertops - in plain English, without the industry jargon.
Whether you’re remodeling your forever home or giving a space a quick refresh, this guide will help you buy with confidence.
Countertop Process: From Template to Install
Have you ever wondered where to start when getting new countertops? Listen to our very own, Graham, explain how easy the process of getting new countertops is when working with Canaan & how are team is here to guide, support, and cheer you on every step of the way-from template to install. Needing new countertops soon? Reach out to us at (913)-351-3500 & learn about our 7-day turnaround!
1. How much do new countertops cost?
Let’s start with the big one. The honest answer? It depends - but here’s the good news: we make it predictable.
Most full-kitchen countertop projects in Kansas City fall between $3,500 and $8,500, depending on:
● Material (quartz, granite, quartzite, etc.)
● Size of your kitchen
● Edge profile
● Sink cut-outs and backsplash choices
If you want a quick, no-pressure estimate, you can use our free online Quote Tool to get an instant ballpark without scheduling anything.
Recommendation: Start with a budget range and let us guide you toward the best-value materials for your space.
2. What’s the difference between quartz and granite?
Quartz:
● Perfect if you want something durable and modern.
● Does not need to be sealed.
● Man-made, low-maintenance, and consistent in pattern
Granite:
● Ideal for homeowners who love natural movement, durability, and the one-of-a-kind aesthetic of each slab.
● Natural stone with unique movement, excellent heat resistance.
Quartzite:
● Great for anyone wanting natural stone beauty with higher durability than granite.
Shoppers are often surprised to learn neither is “better” - just better for different lifestyles.
Recommendation: Visit our showroom to see both materials side-by-side and compare how they feel, not just how they look.
3. How long does it take to get new countertops installed?
This is where Canaan Stone Works shines.
● Our average turnaround is just 7 days from measure to install.
● Most companies run 2–4 weeks or more.
● We fabricate everything in-house in Shawnee, KS, which means you get your countertops way faster.
Here’s how the process works:
- Choose your slab
- We come measure your space
- Fabrication happens in our shop
- Our crew installs the finished countertops
Install day typically takes 2–4 hours depending on the project.
Recommendation: If you have a renovation deadline (holidays, events, move-ins), tell us early so we can fast-track your project.
4. Do I need to be home for the template or installation?
● For the template (measurement), yes - we confirm details, seam placement, sink choices, and ensure cabinets are ready.
● For installation, most customers choose to be home, but it’s not always required if we arrange access ahead of time. We communicate clearly so you always know what to expect.
Recommendation: Plan for someone to be available during the template to avoid delays.
5. Which Countertop Colors are Trending right now?
Kansas City homeowners are leaning towards bright, airy quartz, soft veining, and warm-toned neutrals. Granite favorites include lighter patterns with subtle movement. That said, trends shouldn’t overshadow your personal style- you’ll live with this surface for years.
We recommend choosing a countertop based on:
● Your cabinet color
● Your flooring tone
● How much movement you like
● Whether you want a timeless or bold look
Recommendation: Choose a stone you’ll still love in five years, not just what’s trending on Instagram today.
6. Will quartz stain? Will granite need maintenance?
Let’s clear up some myths:
Quartz:
● Heat-resistant, but not heat-proof.
● Don’t place hot pans directly on it.
Granite:
● Extremely heat-resistant.
● Needs to be sealed, but we do that for you - and resealing takes 10 minutes once a year.
Quartzite:
● One of the most heat- and scratch-resistant natural stones available.
If you cook a lot, have kids, or use your kitchen heavily, knowing these differences can help you make the right choice.
Recommendation: Tell us your lifestyle- we’ll point you to the material that fits it best.
7. Do you remove old countertops and reconnect plumbing?
Yes - we handle:
● Tear-out
● Fabrication
● Installation
● Haul-away
● Seam placement
● Sink installation
● Backsplash cuts
We make the process as smooth as possible so you’re not juggling multiple companies.
Recommendation: Plan for your plumber to reconnect plumbing the day after install for minimal disruption.
8. Are you local, and do you fabricate in-house?
Yes- Canaan Stone Works is family-owned, local to Shawnee, and has been fabricating and installing countertops in Kansas City for nearly 20 years. We store slabs indoors to prevent discoloration and damage, fabricate with our own top-of-the-line equipment, and install using our in-house crews (never subcontractors).
Buying local means faster turnaround, better workmanship, and a team that truly cares about your home. Let our family take care of yours.
Recommendation: If you’re comparing quotes, ask whether the company fabricates in-house- it makes a huge difference in quality and timeline.
9. How do I get started?
Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a seasoned designer, or a professional builder, we keep it simple:
- Schedule a measure
- Visit our showroom
- Or use our online Quote Tool to get a ballpark in minutes
No matter if you’re designing your forever home or updating a space before selling, the right countertops make all the difference. No pressure. No pushy sales tactics. Just honest answers from a team that treats your home like it’s our own.
Recommendation: Bring photos of your kitchen so our design team can help you narrow down your top choices.
Ready for new countertops? We’d love to help.
If you’re in the Kansas City, Topeka, Lawrence, Manhattan (or surrounding) areas, and planning a kitchen or bathroom update, our team at Canaan Stone Works is here to guide you every step of the way.
Your dream kitchen starts with a conversation - and we’re proud to be the company people trust again and again.